Cyclical Violence and Horror in Storytelling

14min Snip

00:00

Play full episode

Summary

Transcript

Episode notes

This chapter explores themes of generational violence and isolation as reflected in a horror film's narrative. Through discussions on character flaws, the impact of trauma, and the symbolism of a haunted hotel, the speakers analyze the intersection of psychological and supernatural horror. They also critique the differences between Stephen King's novel 'The Shining' and its film adaptation, highlighting the challenges in maintaining emotional depth in story adaptations.

Cornell philosopher David Shoemaker joins us for a long winding journey up to the Overlook Hotel, a DEEP dive on Stanley Kubrick’s The Shining. We tackle all the big questions - is the hotel truly haunted? What if anything does it symbolize? Why are there two Gradys and two sets of daughters? How does the filmmaking – and the Steadicam in particular - amplify our sense of dread? Does Jack shine too? How does he get out of the storage closet? Is Shelly Duval’s performance actually brilliant? What the fuck is up with Bill? Should the Overlook have included a land acknowledgment? And lots more. Come listen to us, forever and ever and ever….

David Shoemaker's website [sites.google.com]

Wisecracks by David Shoemaker [amazon.com afilliate link]

Review of Wisecracks by Kieran Setiya [atlantic.com]

The Shining [wikipedia.org]